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BK-2 (or Type D) Soviet Riverine Gunboat

After analyzing the experience of combats in 1914, the High Command of the Russian army concluded that it was necessary to create a specifically l designed fleets to be deployed in the riverine areas near the front. These boats would be used to gather intelligence, deliver supplies and provide combat support to troops fighting nearby.

It was decided to immediately begin construction of a fleet of armored boats. In 1915 the High Command proposed to built no later than fall of 1915 three small specially constructed gunboats, six armored boats (in russian, "Bronekater") for conducting reconnaissance, and guard boats for each of the three riverine combat zones.

In addition to limited manufacturing capabilities in Russia at that time , the complex requirements for boat speed, artillery equipment, and small size were too difficult for the Russian engineeres to solve.

The Russians looked for foreign manufacturers. The European shipyards - which usually completed orders for the Russian fleet - were booked beyond capacity and failed to supply their own fleets, so the the only other option was to work with the United States, a country that was not involved in the war at that time .The contract for manufacturing of 18 armored boats was signed with Mullins & Co, Salem, OH guaranteeing the completion of the project until the end of 1916.